On Wednesday, May 21, the Menomonee Falls Library Board will discuss and consider for approval significant amendments to Policy 4.01: Collection Development Policy — and the implications could have a lasting impact on our community’s access to diverse, professionally curated materials.
At the heart of the proposed changes is the removal of professional reviews and the elimination of a long-standing commitment to nationally recognized principles, such as the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights, the Freedom to Read Statement, and the Freedom to View Statement.
Why This Matters
Our library is more than shelves and checkout counters — it’s a public institution rooted in intellectual freedom, diverse perspectives, and equal access to information. The current policy reflects this by emphasizing that:
“While an individual may reject materials for themselves, they should not attempt to exercise censorship to restrict access to the materials by others.”
By removing the requirement to use professional reviews and well-established selection criteria, the proposed changes open the door to subjective decision-making and potential censorship. This is especially troubling in a time when politically motivated book challenges are rising across the country.
How the Reconsideration Process Works — and Could Be Weakened
Right now, if a community member objects to a book or resource, they must submit a written Request for Reconsideration. This initiates a thoughtful process involving the Library Director and the selector, with an option for review by the full Library Board. Crucially, during this process, the material remains available to the public.
This process ensures that no single voice can remove access for the entire community. It prioritizes fairness, professionalism, and transparency.
But if policy changes weaken the role of objective standards and expert reviews, the reconsideration process could become less about thoughtful evaluation and more about personal or political opinion.
What You Can Do
This meeting is a pivotal moment for the future of our library and what it represents. Here’s how you can take action:
Attend the Library Board Meeting:
Wednesday, May 21 @ 6 PM
Menomonee Falls Library, Community Room
Submit a written comment or speak during public comment
Let the board know you value a policy that protects access to a wide range of materials and respects all readers.
Spread the word
Share this blog post, social media graphics, and event details with your neighbors, friends, and local organizations.